What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dog Bather position at Pooch Hotel?
Professional Pet Bather
Full-Time | Pet Spa Team
Are you dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to safe, high-quality pet care?
We are seeking a Professional Pet Bather to join our Pet Spa team. This role is ideal for someone who values safety, cleanliness, efficiency, and clear communication with both team members and pet parents. This is a hands-on, physically active role that requires strong time management and attention to detail.
Who We Are
NVA Pet Resorts is part of National Veterinary Associates (NVA) — the largest private owner of veterinary hospitals and pet resorts in North America, with 1,300 locations. We’re proud to be in an $8B industry that continues to grow as pet parents seek premium, trusted care for their furry family members.
At NVA Pet Resorts, our mission is simple:
Create safe, fun, and loving environments for pets while providing exceptional experiences for our clients and team members.
Position Overview
The Bather plays a critical role in supporting the Grooming and Spa team. You are responsible for delivering safe, thorough bathing services while maintaining strict sanitation standards and clear communication.
Bathers do not perform haircuts of any kind. All haircutting services are performed by Groomers.
What You’ll Do Bathing & Pet Care
- Perform professional bathing services based on client requests
- Brush out coats, dry pets thoroughly, trim nails, and clean ears
- Monitor pets for signs of stress, skin conditions, or health concerns
- Ensure pets receive water and potty breaks during extended appointments
- Follow all safe handling procedures, especially for nervous or reactive pets
- Review prior notes and service history before beginning each appointment
Communication
- Communicate professionally with pet parents regarding services and pickup times
- Document detailed notes in the computer system
- Alert leadership immediately to any health or safety concerns
- Clearly communicate with Groomers and Pet Care staff regarding pet location and timing
Sanitation & Standards
- Clean and sanitize bathing and drying areas daily
- Sweep hair promptly and maintain a tidy workspace
- Disinfect drying rooms daily
- Properly measure and dilute all bathing products to company standards
- Empty, rinse, and sanitize diluted product bottles daily
- Monitor product expiration dates and manage inventory needs
Operational Excellence
- Complete baths efficiently and on schedule
- Adhere to pricing guidelines and prior service history
- Maintain tools and bathing equipment
- Follow pet identification procedures (groom cards, name bands, etc.)
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking someone who is:
- Safety-focused and gentle in handling
- Highly reliable and punctual
- Organized and strong in time management
- Detail-oriented with documentation
- Comfortable communicating with pet parents
- Physically capable and comfortable in a wet, fast-paced environment
You must be able to:
- Lift up to 60 lbs
- Stand for extended periods
- Work weekends and holidays
- Handle dogs of all sizes safely
- Work around water, cleaning chemicals, and pet messes
Benefits & Perks
- Health, Dental & Vision
- Insurance
- Employee Pet Care Discounts
- Tips
- Growth opportunities within NVA
Equal Opportunity Employer
NVA Pet Resorts is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.
At Pooch Hotel, we're so much more than a dog kennel. We love looking after your four-legged family member. We also offer doggie daycare, training, and a dog grooming salon, so your pet's entire experience is like a luxury vacation at a resort.
Pay:
- Tips
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Employee discount
- Paid training
Job Type: fulltime, parttime
Schedule:
- Weekend availability
- Monday to Friday
- Holidays
Education: No education required
Work location: On-site